Uber Ruling – Is It The Right Decision For The Self-Employed?

Uber drivers have been classified as Workers following a London tribunal hearing. What this means is that around 40,000 drivers working across England and Wales are now entitled to being paid the national minimum wage, holiday pay and paid rest breaks.

What does the GMB Union think?

Whilst the GMB Union feels this is a huge triumph for the ordinary driver, do the majority of the drivers share the same sentiment? The GMB also rejected claims that drivers earned an average of £16 an hour and that most wished to remain as per their current contracts.

Has this Uber ruling improved worker’s rights?

The tribunal’s decision may pave the way for worker’s rights across the so called ‘gig’ economy but is this what the flexibility seeking, self-employed individual wants? Or will it be detrimental to those who have the freedom to contribute to the economy within the restrictions of their personal situation?

Is Uber happy with the ruling?

Uber will appeal against the decision as the company do not feel they acted unlawfully and firmly believe that the drivers are self-employed contractors.

“Uber also stressed that their drivers want to be self-employed and want the freedom and flexibility to be their own boss.” (Source: Recruiting Times)

Steven Rowe, an Uber driver, was disappointed with the decision and claimed that whilst the minority will be pleased with the decision, the vast majority of the drivers are worried about whether Uber can operate as successfully as it has done so far in this country.